Religious belief as determinant of animal derived medications in health care: how much is fairly good?

Abstract

Various social, cultural, and ethnic factors can play a role even in the use and availability of medical resources; religious belief, although less reported, is one such strong factor. Not much scientific literature is available regarding the use of porcine and bovine derived medications and medical devices for patients practicing Judaism, Islam, and Hinduism. Consideration and knowledge of these issues is necessary to facilitate successful communication with a diverse patient population and respect her religious convictions. The anesthesiologist may also have to face this situation, albeit rarely. To play safely, one needs to have a sound knowledge about the origin of the medications intended to be used and adequate interview with the patient or his attendants to avoid any untoward event. This editorial compliments a case report being published in this issue on a similar topic.